We want to say a huge thank you to Ben Sutton, a dedicated medical student from Keele University, who recently completed a series of remarkable challenges to support Emmaus North Staffs.
Ben’s efforts involved sleeping rough, participating in a dodgeball tournament, and undertaking a gruelling 24-hour cycling session up and down Keele Hill in Newcastle-under-Lyme. His goal was not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the valuable work carried out by our charity Emmaus North Staffs.
Ben explained his motivation undertaking the challenge, saying, “I wanted to raise not just funds, but awareness for a charity who provide life skills and life changes – and that’s what Emmaus North Staffs do.
“I heard about Emmaus North Staffs through a couple of people I know at university who had taken part in a work placement there. The charity do amazing things in the area and I really wanted to try and help to raise awareness as much as I could.”
Ben initially set a target of £400 on his JustGiving page, but the overwhelming response from supporters allowed him to surpass this goal. As of Tuesday 23 May 2023, the funds raised amounted to an impressive £1,650.
During his week of challenges, Ben and a group of friends spent several nights sleeping rough to gain a first-hand understanding of the difficulties faced by those experiencing homelessness. Ben further pushed his limits by cycling up and down Keele Hill, completing an astounding 87 ascents, covering a total distance of 174 miles with an elevation gain of 5,800 metres.
Our Executive Lead John Webbe expressed his gratitude for Ben’s remarkable efforts, saying, “Ben has done something amazing and it was such a surprise when we found out he was doing this. We cannot thank him enough for raising awareness for our charity and thank everyone who donated.”
You can find further details about Ben’s charity challenge and show your support by visiting his JustGiving page at justgiving.com/page/ben-sutton-1681287074660
Inspired by his success, Ben and his university friends are currently planning another fundraiser for Emmaus North Staffs—a barn dance event aimed at further raising awareness and funds. They are finalising the details and hope to organize the event in the near future.
All the funds raised will help our charity continue tackling furniture poverty in the local area. Each year, we partner with local councils and housing associations to offer free items to over 800 households without access to essential furniture and appliances. We’re also working on plans to establish a community for people in North Staffordshire who have experienced homelessness. This accommodation will offer a home, work experience, daily support and funded training to rebuild lives.